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Quiz: What’s Your Stress Type?

Not all stress is created equal. The things that trigger your anxiety might not worry your friends or family. Take this quiz to find your unique stress type and get targeted solutions designed to help you relax.

In general, are you more likely to:A. Have trouble focusingB. Have trouble sitting stillC. Have trouble multitasking

Are you more prone to:A. ColdsB. HeadachesC. Muscle pain

Mostly As: “Dash and Crash” Stress TypeYou’re a high achiever fueled by stress. It keeps you focused and running, but once the stress is reduced or eliminated, you crash. You likely multitask like crazy during the week, but on the weekends, find yourself passed out on the couch.

Prevent burnout by prioritizing. Spend five minutes every morning making a list of everything you want to accomplish. Label each item a “high,” “medium” or “low” priority. Resist the temptation to make every item a “high” priority – all that accomplishes is overexertion. Ideally, you’re list should never have more than three “high” priority items at a time.

Also, consider writing this list by hand. Physically crossing items off of your list as you accomplish them will help reinforce the progress you’re making.Mostly Bs: “Constant Overdrive” Stress TypeYou have a difficult time relaxing because even though you’re very logical, you’re always in your head. Your fight-or-flight response is easily triggered and doesn’t shut off. It’s common for people with this stress type to be habitually anxious and have trouble falling asleep. You often operate with blinders on, powering through tough times – you have a hard time connecting to and feeling your emotions.

Often you don't see anxiety coming because you’ve been avoiding the feeling for so long. It’s important for you to face that anxiety and express how you are feeling. People with this stress type are the most likely to benefit from talk therapy. If you aren’t ready to see a professional, start by having a five-minute conversation with someone you trust every day.

Mostly Cs: “Zero to 60” Stress TypeYou aren’t one for multitasking and are likely to describe yourself as “exhausted” or “drained.” From the outside you seem calm and collected but the reality is you’re paralyzed by even a little bit of stress. You become fearful and anxious, struggling to find a way to move forward.

If you are feeling paralyzed by stress, try lying face down on the floor in plank position, breathing slowly and deeply with palms down for five minutes. It’s the "fake it 'til you make it" approach to relaxing: this action sends the message to your brain that you’re relaxed, which in turn relaxes your body.